Drain Error (Water Not Pumping Out)

What it means

This code appears on newer Bosch front-load washing machines when water is not drained from the drum within the set time, so the program stops with water still inside. The most common cause is a drain pump filter blocked with lint, coins or buttons, followed by a kinked drain hose. Older Bosch models show F18 for the same fault, and the same number can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: Bosch front-load washing machines; newer models show E codes, older ones (e.g. Maxx, Logixx) F codes.

Related codes: F18E17E23F17

Symptoms4

• The program stops and E18 shows with water still in the drum.
• The spin does not start, or the laundry comes out very wet.
• The pump hums without pumping water, or makes no sound at all.
• The door will not open because the water level is still high.

Possible causes6

• A drain pump filter blocked with lint, coins, buttons or tissues.
• A kinked or blocked drain hose, or its end fitted too low or too high.
• A blocked sink outlet or standpipe that the hose drains into.
• A small object stuck in the drain pump impeller.
• A faulty drain pump or pump connection.
• Excess foam from a detergent not made for front-loaders.

How to diagnose5

1. Unplug the machine and wait for the water to cool if a hot program was running.
2. Open the filter cover at the bottom front, place a shallow tray and towels, drain the water through the small emergency hose if fitted, then unscrew the filter slowly.
3. Clean lint and objects from the filter and its housing, and gently turn the pump impeller with a finger to check it spins.
4. Check the drain hose along its full length, and make sure the sink outlet or standpipe is not blocked.
5. If the fault remains, a technician unplugs the machine before opening it and checks the pump, its connection and the internal hoses.

How to fix5

1. Clean the drain pump filter and screw it back firmly so it does not leak.
2. Straighten the drain hose and clear any blockage in it or in the drain.
3. Use a front-loader detergent at the recommended dose.
4. Have the technician replace the drain pump if it does not run with a clean filter.
5. Run a rinse and spin program and confirm the water drains and the code does not return.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

Most cases are fixed by cleaning the filter or hose; the cost only rises when the drain pump has to be replaced.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions